How to apply for GUIDE Dementia Care Program (Broward County) in Florida

Who it's for

GUIDE (Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience) is a Medicare program offered in Broward County through the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County. It gives people living with dementia and their caregivers a care navigator, a full assessment and care plan, caregiver education and support, 24/7 access to a care team or helpline, and help connecting to meals and transportation. Caregivers of someone with significant memory impairment may get a respite allowance of up to $2,500. There is no extra cost. The person must have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B, not Medicare Advantage), a confirmed dementia diagnosis, and live at home or in the community. People in a nursing home, memory care, assisted living, hospice, or PACE cannot join. Call 954-745-9567 and ask for the GUIDE department.

What you'll need

• Medicare card (Part A and Part B)
• Name of the clinician who confirmed the dementia diagnosis

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about GUIDE Dementia Care Program (Broward County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need medicare card (Part A and Part B), name of the clinician who confirmed the dementia diagnosis — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.